There is lots to see and do in Dubai and though one day is definitely not enough, if planned properly you can still manage to squeeze in sufficient to enable you to say with satisfaction, “Been there, did that!” Even though you are hard pressed for time there are a few places that you absolutely must see and things that you absolutely must do.
A lot also depends on what interests you – history or modernity, sights or shopping. The key factor here is to start your day early and to move fast. You can start your tour of Dubai from the historic Bastakiya at Bur Dubai. Wander through the lanes as you observe the architecture of the old houses, the wind towers, the mud walls and original hand carved wooden doors. Visit the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort. It opens early enough, at 8:30 am. This should take you an hour if you don’t linger on at the souvenir shop at the exit of the museum!
From here you can head straight to Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s House where you will get a glimpse into the Dubai of yesteryears. Spend a little time looking at the exhibits therein: photographs, coinage, jewelry, artillery etc. This has been listed a national monument and is an invaluable source of information for those interested in Arabian history, culture and architecture.
A trip on the water taxi(abra) will take you to the other side of the creek where you can feel yourself transported to another world as quaint sights and smells assail your senses as you pass by the perfume souk and the spice souk. This is the place where you can feel the throbbing pulse of the city. Head straight on to the Gold Souk and let yourself be dazzled by the astonishing variety of jewelry audaciously displayed in the shops. Since Dubai and gold are synonymous, a visit to this souk is an absolute must. Also in the bylanes of the souk are nestled a number of souvenir shops so be sure to check these out too.
There are a number of restaurants and cafes in this area serving Indian and Pakistani cuisine as well as shawarma and snacks.
From here you can head to Jumeirah beach where you can relax for a while before heading over to see the Burj Al Arab. Get yourself photographed in front of this iconic structure which is an architectural delight. Adjacent to the Burj Al Arab is the Madinat Jumeirah Souk where you can wander around the shops while getting the feel of a typical Arabian market. A number of restaurants here serve a variety of cuisines. The best way to take in modern Dubai is to go downtown and see the Burj Dubai, the tallest building in the world, and then drive down the famous Sheikh Zayed Road with its innumerable tall buildings, which stand in testimony to Dubai’s being a world class city. If shopping is what your heart desires then proceed to the Mall of the Emirates for some world class shopping experience or drive further down to the Ibn Batuta Mall which is worth visiting even if you don’t want to shop. Start at the China Court and work your way through as you admire the Egypt, India, Persia and Tunisia Courts. You will end at the food court where you can dine at any of the fast food outlets serving cuisines from all over the world.
Another option is to head back to the Creek and take a dhow cruise where you can enjoy dinner and music as your dhow drifts long on the waters of the Arabian Gulf.
The experience will make you want to come back for more!
Home 
Top Destinations Dubai General Information
Top Destinations Dubai General Information
Show/hide comment form
